Farewell to Arsenal Ladies legend Kelly Smith

ARSENAL legend Kelly Smith was applauded onto the pitch by her team-mates and the Emirates Stadium crowd on Saturday to celebrate her glittering career for both club and country.

The star striker, 38, called time on her 20-year playing career last month, revealing that she was taking on a full-time coaching role with Arsenal Ladies.

Smith established herself as one of the finest players in the women’s game and had a vital role in the Gunners quadruple winning season of 2006-2007 – scoring 30 goals in 34 games.

A two-time winner of the FA Player of the Year, she is also England Women’s all-time leading goal scorer with over 100 caps to her name.

She was also recognised for her services to women’s football in 2008 when she was awarded an MBE. On Saturday She was presented with a special award by Arsenal chairman Sir Chips Keswick and long-time Ladies manager Vic Akers during the Premier League win over Hull.